North Cyprus Demographic Information

Population of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus

The population of the North Cyprus is 200,587 inhabitants. 50% of thepopulation lives in the cities and 50 % in the countryside. 99% of the adult population is literate.

Language in Northern Cyprus

Turkish is the predominant language of Northern Cyprus, however Cypriots have their own version. Just as parts of England have adapted the English language so the Turkish Cypriots have their own words. Napiyorsunuz (What are you doing?) becomes ‘Napan’ amongst friends as they greet each other.

English is widely spoken and understood with many Cypriots having lived in England or with relatives residing there.

North Cyprus Currency

New Turkish Lira

The new Turkish lira is the current currency of Turkey and Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus, issued on January 1 2005. It is equivalent to 1 million old Turkish lira (which will remain valid until the end of 2005) and divisible into 100 new kurus.

Symbol: YTL (Yeni Türk Lirasi)
Banknotes: 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 1 YTL
Coins: 1 YTL and 50, 25, 10, 5, 1 new kurus

Sterling, US Dollars and other major currencies may be used in large stores or exchanged. Sterling is the best form of currency to bring. If you feel uncomfortable carrying large amounts of cash then Eurocheques, Travellers Cheques are accepted and easily exchanged in banks, exchange bureaux and hotels. Do not bring Turkish Lira as the exchange rates are much better in Northern Cyprus.

While no restrictions are placed on imports of foreign exchange, large amounts should be declared to customs upon entry. Up to $10,000 may be exported.

Time Zone in Northern Cyprus

Northern Cyprus is two hours ahead of GMT.

Religion

An estimated 98 % of Turkish - Cypriot population of North Cyprus is considered Sunni Muslim. There is a small Turkish Cypriot Baha'i community. Most other non-Muslims in the north are foreigners from Europe or elsewhere who are generally members of the Roman Catholic Church, Anglican Church, Matonite Church, Greek Orthodox Church, Armenians or others (Jews) that altogether make the remaining 2 %. Approximately 10 percent of the population in the north attends religious services regularly.

City distances in North Cyprus

General Information about North Cyprus